How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a rush to get your work done and jam your keys into the ignition. You try turning the key however it locks. the lock.
There are a few things you could try to fix the issue before contacting a professional locksmith. Here are some quick fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Call an expert locksmith
One of the most devastating things that could happen to an owner of a vehicle is a broken key in the lock. This can be even more painful if it occurs when the driver is hurrying to get somewhere or to drop off an infant. In such a situation, it is important to act quickly and attempt to release the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option, as they'll have the right tools and know how to remove the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, however this isn't likely to work as it's too heavy to fit into the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair of tweezers. They are lightweight and easily fit inside the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the damaged part of a key, and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it's worth searching for a set available at auto parts stores. These are flat and narrow with small hooks that can be inserted into the key hole, and then hold onto the damaged part of the key.
Another option is to locate an magnetic key hook that will stick to the metal inside the lock and be pulled out. This is not always the best choice as it can get caught under the lock and cause damage. In this case it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people try to join the two pieces of a broken car key using superglue in order to get it out of the lock. However, this is very risky as the bits of metal may cling to each other and then break apart later. It is crucial not to turn the key, as this could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Contact a professional locksmith to repair the damaged key on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes a key is broken inside the lock, and even with a spare, you might not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. In these cases drilling out the lock is the best option.
It is important to ensure that the keyhole is positioned for a basic tumbler. If it isn't, you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door, and possibly damaging the lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to understand that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers using a tiny drill bits, but you shouldn't go any further. If you drill to deep, it could harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to stick within the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear while working with drilling. This will prevent dust and dirt from getting into your lung.
It is also a good idea, in the event that the key fragment is broken and remains stuck in the lock, to have pliers and tweezers in your bag. If the key is protruding enough to be held by pliers and tweezers this is enough to pull it out. If not you'll require a tool such as this one to encase the tool inside the lock and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and take it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it could leave you stranded. There are fortunately a few methods to fix it without having to pay for locksmith. The first step is to use a screw or nail. key car repair can find these at home or at a hardware store. But, it is best to search for the nail that is as thin and long as possible. You can then insert it into the hole, and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners opt for DIY techniques, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky practice. You could end up damaging the lock and having to spend more money on getting a replacement from the dealership or locksmith.
The first step is to examine the keys that have been damaged and make sure they are identical in terms of size. This is crucial to ensure that all the glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key will fit in the lock after they have been bonded. After that, use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth out the edges of the broken pieces of the key. This will help make the glue stick better and lessen the risk of a key falling loose in the future.
After you've polished the edges of the broken key, apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Be cautious not to apply too much glue, because this could cause the key to become too heavy and it will be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the broken key, press them together. After a few moments the glue will begin to set and join together the key fragments.
Another common household item that can be used to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like tool, then put into the lock. This technique is particularly useful if the break is in or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will need a new key from the locksmith or dealer. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip inside the key will need to be replaced. In contrast, if only the metal or shell of the key is damaged the key, it will usually only require a new key cut and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of electronic components.